Direct Support Professional - Slippery Rock, PA

Position Requirements:

• A verifiable high school diploma or GED is required.
• A current and valid driver's license is required
• Age 18 or older

Related experience is helpful.

The Direct Support Professional (DSP) plays a vital role in enhancing the quality of life for individuals with developmental, intellectual, or physical disabilities by providing compassionate and personalized support. This position focuses on assisting clients in achieving greater independence, community integration, and personal growth through tailored care and encouragement. The DSP will work closely with clients to support their daily living activities, promote skill development, and ensure their health and safety in various environments. Collaboration with families, healthcare providers, and other team members is essential to create and implement individualized support plans. Ultimately, the DSP contributes to fostering a respectful, empowering, and inclusive atmosphere that promotes dignity and self-determination for each individual served.

• Assist clients with daily living activities such as personal hygiene, meal preparation, medication reminders, and mobility support.
• Implement individualized care plans and support clients in developing life skills, social interactions, and community participation.
• Monitor and document client progress, behaviors, and any changes in health or well-being, reporting concerns to supervisors promptly.
• Provide emotional support and encouragement to promote client confidence and independence.
• Maintain a safe, clean, and supportive environment that respects client privacy and dignity.

• High school diploma or equivalent.
• Ability to pass background checks and any required health screenings.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills.
• Demonstrated patience, empathy, and reliability.
• Basic understanding of safety and emergency procedures.

• Previous experience working with individuals with disabilities or in a caregiving role.
• Certification in CPR and First Aid.
• Training or coursework related to developmental disabilities or behavioral support.
• Ability to work flexible hours including evenings, weekends, and holidays.
• Valid driver's license and reliable transportation.

The skills required for this role are applied daily to ensure clients receive respectful and effective support tailored to their unique needs. Communication skills enable the DSP to interact clearly and compassionately with clients, families, and team members, fostering trust and collaboration. Problem-solving and observational skills are essential for identifying client needs and responding appropriately to changes in behavior or health. Time management and organizational skills help the DSP balance multiple responsibilities while maintaining accurate documentation. Preferred skills such as CPR certification and experience with behavioral support enhance the DSP's ability to provide safe and specialized care, contributing to positive client outcomes.

Benefits

Merakey offers competitive compensation plans and more!

• DailyPay
• Work/Life Balance
• Flexible Schedules
• Cell Phone Discount Plans
• Employee Referral Bonuses

About Merakey

Merakey is a non-profit provider of developmental, behavioral health, and education services. More than 8,000 employees provide support to nearly 40,000 individuals and families throughout 12 states across the country each year. Click here to watch a video about Merakey. Merakey strictly follows a zero-tolerance policy for abuse.

Merakey is proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer! We deeply value diversity and do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, ethnic background, sex, gender, gender identity, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, genetic information, or disability status. Moreover, we are committed to creating teams that reflect the diversity of the communities we serve and encourage applicants from underrepresented backgrounds to apply. Merakey welcomes all Veterans to apply!